Chatelaine: 18th century

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Chatelaine. A late 18th century French cut steel chatelaine. The design is in three sections, oval polished steel plates are overlaid with pierced three-colour gold trophies. The subjects are symbolic; the music trophy with a torch and fruit represents the Senses, the doves are for Joy and the basket of flowers represent Knowledge. The chatelaine itself stands for the dignity of the married state.